How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Oregon?

By Michael J. Scott; Updated March 20, 2017

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A DUI conviction in Oregon will remain on your record forever. It does not drop off after a set amount of time, and Oregon state law precludes expungements for DUI convictions. Officially referred to as "Driving while Under the Influence of Intoxicants," or DUII, in Oregon, once a DUII is on your record, it's there for life.

Oregon DUII Laws

In Oregon, drivers over 21 are considered to be driving under the influence of intoxicants if their blood alcohol reading is 0.08 percent or more. If you are under 21, no alcohol is permitted to be in your system. Like most states, Oregon uses implied consent, meaning that by driving a motor vehicle you have implied that you will consent to a breathalyzer or urine test.

Arrests

In most states, an arrest without a conviction can be removed from your record, but Oregon does not allow this for traffic offenses. So even if you are not convicted, the arrest will remain. However, arrests do not have the same negative consequences as convictions and should not have the negative impact on your life that a conviction can have.

Diversions

Oregon does allow certain DUI offenders to enter into a diversion program. If you complete the requirements of the program, the charge is ultimately dismissed. The arrest will remain on your record, but no conviction will be entered.

Expungements

Oregon does have mechanisms in place to have some crimes expunged from your record, or "set aside" as it's called in the state. However these mechanisms do not apply to driving under the influence of intoxicants, driving while suspended, or other traffic-related offenses.

Comparison to Other States

Oregon is relatively strict when it comes to criminal records, and DUI convictions and arrests. Most states will allow a DUI to be expunged after a set period of time. Utah, for example, allows DUI convictions to be expunged after 10 years if no subsequent offenses have occurred.

References

About the Author

Michael Scott is a freelance writer and professor of justice studies at Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is a former prosecutor. Scott has a J.D. from Emory University and is a member of the Utah State Bar. He has been freelancing since June 2009, and his articles have been published on eHow.com and Travels.com.